Sustainability is transforming the architectural profession. The term has become ubiquitous;
not only is it associated with design and construction of “green” buildings, but it
is also attached to economic development, business practices, and more. “Sustainability”
is a concept that looks critically at humanity’s past relationship with the environment,
provides goals for the present and creates potential for the future. With the convergence
of events such as soaring population growth, climate change and diminishing resources,
the practice of sustainability is essential as we face these unprecedented challenges.

With the growing understanding of the negative impact buildings have on the environment
architects, engineers, contractors and manufacturers have been aggressively seeking
new approaches and techniques to make buildings more energy efficient; but these approaches
are to a great extent additive instead of organic to the building process.

It is becoming increasingly apparent that a more organic approach to architectural
education is needed to train future generations of professionals in design and construction
methodologies rooted in sustainable principles. Ferris’ Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Sustainability is shaped in such an organic context in which education in building technology and
design is conceived in a social and cultural context of community planning that values
responsible approaches to resource management and the environment. This educational
framework provides a comprehensive understanding of issues on a social and global
scale, highlighting humanity’s role in shaping the community and environment.

The primary goal of the BS in Architecture and Sustainability is to teach students
to embrace sustainability and community planning principles so that in the future
buildings will not be perceived merely as objects unrelated to their setting, but
components in a complex environmental pattern of natural features, constructed elements,
and the people who interact with them.

"As a Master of Architecture graduate from Ball State University, the Architectural Technology and Facility Management programs provided me with a solid foundation that I relied on numerous times. The hands-on experience in the studios, the collaborative atmosphere, the faculty and courses, and the focus on both the technical and design aspects of architecture were most beneficial as a precursor to my graduate level classes and studio work."